Are allergies inherited?

Though having allergies tends to run in families, the exact type of allergic disorder may vary from one generation to the next.  For example, if Grandma had asthma, and Dad had hives from food allergies, you and your siblings may have "hay fever" (nasal allergies) or eczema, but not necessarily asthma or hives.

Also, while you may be allergic to shellfish, your child could develop an allergy to anything from foods to airborne inhaled allergens such as pollens or dust mites.  Just because a parent is allergic to cats doesn't mean a child will also be allergic to cats.  If there is a rabbit in the playroom, it is much more likely that the child will develop an allergy to rabbits.

For more information, please visit us at www.southbayallergy.com